Deepak Mangesh
Director
Deepak Mangesh is a visionary social impact advocate and changemaker driven by an unwavering passion to help people unlock their full potential and design lives they love. His unconventional journey—from civil engineer to social impact advocate—reflects his deep belief that true fulfillment lies beyond societal expectations.
Deepak's journey began with a profound exploration of self, yoga, and interactions with diverse individuals and spiritual masters. These experiences ignited a passion to challenge conventional notions of success and empower others to live authentically.
He champions holistic well-being and ecological balance through the NOW Foundation, spearheading initiatives that revitalize ecosystems, empower communities, and foster sustainable livelihoods. His groundbreaking "Meta Changemakers Movement" and "Lifversity" platform offer a radical reimagining of education and life itself, guiding individuals towards personal growth and a harmonious relationship with the planet.
His journey, marked by transformative initiatives like the revitalization of Bangalore's Hadosiddapura Lake and his community support during the pandemic by forming Mysore Volunteer Forum, is a testament to the power of individual action.
With a deep understanding of human struggles and aspirations, Deepak Mangesh continues to inspire and guide countless individuals toward a more sustainable, inclusive, equitable, and compassionate world.
Divya Mangesh
Director
Nurturing Harmony Between People and Planet
Divya Mangesh is an environmental engineer with a master's degree who chose a path less travelled, embracing caretaking and a deep connection to spirituality and the arts. Her dedication to a sustainable and just world is evident in her multifaceted pursuits.
A passionate learner of classical instruments, Divya finds solace and joy in playing the Veena and practising Carnatic classical singing. She's also exploring the guitar, bridging her love for traditional and contemporary music. Divya finds harmony in both music and nature. Her green thumb extends beyond her love of gardening; she's a passionate advocate for sustainable living, zero-waste practices, and creative upcycling.
Driven by her expertise in environmental engineering, Divya is keenly interested in tackling the global water crisis. She's a firm believer in innovative solutions for water treatment, conservation, and responsible usage. Her personal commitment to repurposing RO filter discharge water at home has already saved lakhs of litres, demonstrating the power of individual action.
As a director of the NOW Foundation, Divya brings her unique blend of scientific knowledge, artistic spirit, and compassionate heart to the organisation's mission. She plays a vital role in shaping initiatives that promote ecological balance, community well-being, and a harmonious relationship between humans and the planet.
Divya's journey is a reminder that we can all contribute to a better world by embracing our passions, making conscious choices, and fostering a deep connection to the natural world.
Geeta Mahalingapur
CEO
Empowering Communities, Bridging Worlds
Geeta Mahalingapur is a dedicated Community Engager, Systems and Data Analyst, and Creative Storyteller with a passion for empowering communities through technology and education. Her career path, spanning from IT to social impact, showcases her versatility and unwavering commitment to creating a positive change.
With a background in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Geeta honed her skills in data analysis and systems design within the corporate world. However, her heart yearned for something more fulfilling. She embarked on a journey of self-discovery and found her true calling in community engagement and social impact.
Geeta's diverse experiences have enriched her understanding of sustainable, community-driven initiatives. She has worked with organizations like Channapattana Health Library, empowering women Health Navigators to create a digital repository of local health knowledge. At Agamashaala, she facilitated hands-on learning experiences and curated impactful exhibits. Her freelance reporting for Hasiru Dala highlighted the importance of skill development for waste pickers, while her volunteer work with Team YUVAA focused on empowering women and preserving cultural heritage.
Geeta's expertise extends to various domains, including sustainable agriculture, eco-tourism, healthcare, and environmental conservation. She's a champion for bridging the urban-rural gap, recognizing the value of traditional knowledge and promoting sustainable livelihoods in both settings. Her work with organizations like Sahaja Seeds and Porgai Artisans Association underscores her commitment to empowering communities and fostering environmental consciousness.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Geeta is a lifelong learner and creative spirit. She finds solace in Carnatic classical singing and playing the Veena, while also exploring the vibrant world of guitar. Her passion for photography and video documentation allows her to capture the essence of practices and cultures, further connecting people and promoting understanding.
As the CEO of the NOW Foundation, Geeta's leadership is rooted in compassion, empathy, and a deep understanding of the human experience. She is driven to create a world where technology serves as a tool for empowerment, education fosters holistic growth, and sustainable practices become the norm. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of following one's passion and using one's skills to create a positive impact on the world.
